Whitton Farms

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Whitton Farms: A Thriving Oasis of Sustainable Agriculture and Artistry

A Legacy of Farming Excellence

Embracing the Past, Cultivating the Future

A Family Farm's Journey Through the Generations

In the early 1900s, Leona Wells Forrester, a widow with four children, settled in Whitton, Arkansas, seeking a new life as a sharecropper to support her family. From these humble beginnings, the Forrester family farming legacy was born. Over the decades, Leona's son Jess and his wife Helen continued to expand the farm, instilling a deep appreciation for the land and a commitment to hard work.

The torch was then passed to Phillip Forrester, Keith's father, who along with his wife Mary Virginia, dedicated their lives to raising cotton and soybeans. In 1974, the Forrester family was named the Mississippi County Farm Family of the Year, a testament to their dedication and stewardship.

Cultivating a New Vision

In 2001, Keith and Jill Forrester, the current caretakers of Whitton Farms, embarked on a new journey. Seeking a different way of life, they returned to the family's ancestral home, determined to breathe new life into the land.

It was Jill's birthday wish for a large flower garden by the road that ignited a spark, leading the couple to venture into the world of specialty crop farming and floral design. Their first foray into the Memphis Farmers Market was a resounding success, and soon Keith transitioned to farming full-time, while Jill joined him after a few more years of teaching.

Embracing Sustainability and Artistry

At Whitton Farms, the Forresters have seamlessly blended their commitment to sustainable agriculture with a passion for artistry and community engagement. They grow a diverse array of heirloom vegetables, herbs, and an ever-expanding selection of cut flowers, all while employing eco-friendly practices.

Sustainable Farming Practices

  • Composting: The Forresters make their own compost to nourish the soil, avoiding synthetic fertilizers.
  • Organic Pest Management: They eschew the use of harmful sprays, opting for natural methods to protect their crops.
  • Perennial Crops: Many of their crops are perennial, reducing the need for annual tilling and planting.
  • Habitat Conservation: Dozens of native plants and shrubs are added each year to provide a thriving ecosystem for birds and beneficial insects.
  • Seed Saving: The Forresters are dedicated to preserving heirloom varieties by saving and replanting their own seeds.
  • Repurposing Materials: Whitton Farms is a showcase of creative repurposing, with structures built from reclaimed materials.

Artistry and Community Engagement

The Forresters' passion for their craft extends beyond the fields and into the realm of floral design and community involvement. Jill Forrester, the resident "Farmer Florist," offers a wide range of floral services, from weddings and events to seasonal wreaths and arrangements.

Floral Offerings

  • Weddings: From bouquets and boutonnieres to stunning centerpieces and installations, Whitton Farms provides full-service floral design for couples' special day.
  • Seasonal Wreaths: Crafted with locally grown flowers and foliage, these stunning wreaths are perfect for any occasion.
  • Floral Subscriptions: Customers can enjoy a weekly or bi-weekly delivery of the farm's freshest blooms through the Whitton Farms Floral CSA.

Community Engagement

  • Farm Tours: Whitton Farms opens its doors to school groups and visitors, offering educational tours and hands-on activities.
  • Make-and-Take Classes: From peony centerpieces to Christmas wreaths, the Forresters host a variety of seasonal workshops for the community.
  • Team-Building Experiences: Whitton Farms provides a unique setting for bridal parties, sports teams, and other groups to bond over floral design.

Whitton Farms: A Sanctuary of Sustainable Abundance

At the heart of Whitton Farms lies a deep reverence for the land, a commitment to sustainable practices, and a passion for sharing the bounty of their labors with the community. From their award-winning produce and flowers to their engagement with local consumers and visitors, the Forresters have created a thriving oasis that celebrates the rich agricultural heritage of the region while embracing a modern, eco-conscious approach to farming.